ACT BIOSECURITY 2016-2026 STRATEGY...The ACT Biosecurity Strategy 2016-2026 identifies the goals,...

ACT BIOSECURITY STRATEGY

2016-2026

2016-2026 | ACT BIOSECURITY STRATEGY PAGE 1

FOREWORD 3

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 4

VISION: BIOSECURITY – A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY 4

WHAT IS BIOSECURITY? 5

BROAD GOALS FOR BIOSECURITY 5

POLICY PRINCIPLES 6

OUTCOMES 7

SCOPE OF THE STRATEGY 7

WHAT ARE WE PROTECTING 8

OBJECTIVES OF THE STRATEGY 9

POLICY CONTEXT 10

Commonwealth Legislation 10

ACT Legislation 11

ACT Strategies and Plans 12

Intergovernmental Deeds and Agreements 12

WHY BIOSECURITY IS IMPORTANT 14

Economy 14

Environment 14

Community 15

Human Health 15

Public Amenity 15

KEY COMPONENTS OF THE BIOSECURITY SYSTEM 17

Shared responsibility 17

The ACT is not an island 22

Appropriate Level of Protection 22

Biosecurity continuum 22

Risk-management 22

Prioritising biosecurity investments 23

Science-based decision-making 24

Appropriate support mechanisms 24

Continual improvement 24

CONTENTS

ACT BIOSECURITY STRATEGY | 2016-2026

GOVERNANCE 25

MANAGING RISK – RESPONDING TO INCREASING CHALLENGES 26

Climate change 26

Globalisation 27

Population growth 27

New diseases and pests 27

Financial constraints 29

Lack of knowledge 29

Emerging risks 29

BUILDING BIOSECURITY CAPABILITY AND CAPACITY 31

IMPLEMENTATION, REPORTING, REVIEW AND EVALUATION 31

OUTCOMES AND ACTIONS FOR IMPLEMENTING THE ACT BIOSECURITY STRATEGY 33

APPENDIX A: BIOSECURITY THREAT DECISION TREE 38

GLOSSARY 40


FOREWORD

I am delighted to present the ACT Biosecurity Strategy 2016 – 2026.

The ACT Government is committed to protecting the economy, environment

and community from the negative impacts of pests and diseases establishing

or spreading in the ACT.

The ACT Biosecurity Strategy 2016-2026 identifies the goals, objectives and

supporting actions for addressing identified risks.

This strategy acknowledges that biosecurity is a shared responsibility and

sets out recommended strategic directions for all stakeholders in the ACT’s

biosecurity to work towards over the next ten years. It provides the

foundations for government, industry, non-government organisations and

the community to work together and to share resources, knowledge and

expertise to develop a strong and integrated biosecurity system across all

land tenures.

I look forward to working with government agencies, industry, natural

resource managers, land custodians or users, and community groups to

strengthen the ACT’s biosecurity through the delivery of this strategy.

Mick Gentleman MLA

Minister for Planning and Land Management


The effective management of biosecurity risks is critical to minimising the

impacts of weeds, pest animals, and plant and animal pests and diseases on

our economy, environment and the community. The ACT Biosecurity Strategy

highlights the importance of biosecurity for the ACT and identifies the goals,

objectives and supporting actions for addressing biosecurity across the

Territory.

This strategy acknowledges that biosecurity is a shared responsibility and

sets out recommended strategic directions for all stakeholders in the ACT’s

biosecurity to work towards over the next ten years. It provides the

foundations for governments, industry, non-government organisations and

the community to work together and to share resources, knowledge and

expertise to develop a strong and integrated biosecurity system for the ACT.

This strategy also recognises and responds to the fact that the ACT is

surrounded by NSW and must work closely together to manage shared

biosecurity threats. Hence its goals and outcomes are closely aligned with

those of NSW.

This strategy identifies the key factors influencing increasing biosecurity risks

and importantly, it recognises that zero biosecurity risk is unobtainable. The

strategy identifies the pre-border, border and post-border elements of the

biosecurity continuum1 at both the national and ACT level and outlines

actions for addressing biosecurity risks across the continuum to minimise the

likelihood of biosecurity incidents and to mitigate their impacts.

1 The system that manages biosecurity risks off-shore, at the border and onshore.

ACT BIOSECURITY STRATEGYEXECUTIVE SUMMARY

VISION: BIOSECURITY – A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY

Our vision is that biosecurity is recognised as a shared responsibility of governments, industry and the

community. We believe working toward this vision will enable the ACT to effectively meet the current and

future challenges posed by biosecurity risks. The effective management of biosecurity risks, in close

cooperation with NSW, will contribute to community wellbeing by supporting a strong local and regional

economy and a healthy environment.


WHAT IS BIOSECURITY?

“Biosecurity is the management of risks to the economy, the environment, and the community, of

pests and diseases entering, emerging, establishing or spreading.” (Intergovernmental Agreement

on Biosecurity2). Pests and diseases include weeds, pest animals, and pests and diseases of

plants and animals.

BROAD GOALS FOR BIOSECURITYThe ACT’s broad goals for biosecurity are to manage pest and disease

risks by:

• preventing their entry into the ACT;

• quickly finding, containing and eradicating any new entries; and

• effectively minimising the impacts of those pests and diseases that

cannot be eradicated.

2 http://www.coag.gov.au/node/47


This strategy is underpinned by the principles listed below.

1. Biosecurity is a shared-responsibility between all governments, industry,

natural resource managers, land custodians or users, and the

community.

2. Effective biosecurity in the ACT is strengthened through close

cooperation with NSW Biosecurity.

3. In practical terms, zero biosecurity risk is unattainable.

4. The biosecurity continuum is managed through a nationally integrated

system that recognises and defines the roles and responsibilities of all

sectors and sets out cooperative activities.

5. The pre-border, border and post-border elements of the biosecurity

continuum are managed to minimise the likelihood of biosecurity

incidents and mitigate their impacts.

6. Activity is undertaken and investment is allocated according to a cost-

effective, science-based and risk-management approach, prioritising the

allocation of resources to the areas of greatest return.

7. Relevant parties contribute to the cost of biosecurity activities.

a. Risk creators and beneficiaries contribute to the cost of risk

management measures in proportion to the risks created and/or

benefits gained (subject to the efficiency of doing so).

b. Governments contribute to the cost of risk management measures

in proportion to the public good accruing from them.

8. Governments, industry and other relevant parties are involved in

decision-making, according to their roles, responsibilities and

contributions.

9. ACT’s biosecurity arrangements comply with its national and

international rights and obligations.

POLICY PRINCIPLES


This strategy seeks to achieve the following outcomes:

• biosecurity is recognised as a shared responsibility by governments,

industry and the community

• biosecurity protects the environment and community and contributes

to sustainable economic growth

• biosecurity is underpinned by a responsive and consistent legislative

framework, risk management framework, business systems and

training.

SCOPE OF THE STRATEGYThis strategy covers threats to primary industries, the environment, social

amenity and human health in both terrestrial and aquatic environments

caused by:

• weeds and pest animals

• animal pests and diseases, including zoonotic diseases (diseases of

animals that may be transmitted to man under natural conditions –

eg. brucellosis, rabies) plant pests and diseases.

This strategy does not address:

• chemical issues (including contamination or residue issues)

• food safety (except issues associated with zoonoses)

• genetically modified organisms

• animal welfare (except issues associated with animal health).

OUTCOMES


The total area of the ACT is 235,829 hectares of which 53% is conservation area, 21% is rural and

the remainder is urban.

The ACT’s natural assets include Namadgi National Park, which comprises 46% of the ACT and lies at the northern end

of the Australian Alps National Parks, and Canberra Nature Park, which is interspersed with urban centres and gives

the ACT its bush capital image.

Canberra’s urban forest with over 620,000 exotic and native trees is a significant amenity asset to the city.

All rural land in the ACT under private control is held under some form of lease, licence or agistment agreement.

Tenure for rural leases ranges from quarterly to 99 years. The majority of new leases require the lessee to prepare a

Land Management Agreement. This agreement requires the lessee to identify the type and number of stock to be

held on the lease. It also requires the lessee to identify pest animal and weed problems and to identify a control

program and timeframe in which to undertake this program.

Grazing of sheep and cattle is the primary activity conducted on rural land in the ACT. There are 190 leases ranging in

size from 1 hectare to 2,500 hectares. There are normally about 78,000 sheep, 12,000 cattle, 1,500 horses and

200,000 chickens held on these lands, however these numbers fluctuate in response to seasonal variations such as

drought.

There are currently no feedlots, abattoirs or piggeries in the ACT and it is highly unlikely any will be established due to

restrictions in the Territory Plan.

There are three poultry farms, the largest of which has approximately 200,000 laying hens. There is no other poultry

farm for at least 50 kilometres.

The ACT government is responsible for the monitoring of the Canberra saleyards. Approximately 400 – 600 cattle pass

through these saleyards each fortnight.

There are three significant zoological establishments in the ACT, one is the National Zoo and Aquarium (exotic and

native animals) the other two are Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and the Mulligans Flat Woodlands Sanctuary

(native animals).

Forestry is the dominant plant industry in the ACT with 7,000 hectares of pine plantation under management. A small

amount of grain and fodder cropping also occurs on rural leases.

The largest horticultural industry in the ACT is grape growing however there are small apple orchards, plantings of

olives, truffle farms, a turf farm and a few market gardens. With its predominantly urban population and garden city

ethos, gardening is popular and there is a thriving nursery industry.

Urban and suburban areas provide residential living for most of the ACT’s population of 385,6003 and communal

facilities such as sportsgrounds, public open spaces, shopping centres, roads, utilities and other infrastructure.

3 http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/[email protected]/mf/3101.0

WHAT ARE WE PROTECTING


The objectives of the strategy are to:

• communicate a clear vision and build support for a strong and

integrated biosecurity system for the ACT

• help meet the ACT’s obligations under national biosecurity agreements

• provide the foundation for all stakeholders – government agencies,

industry, natural resource managers, land custodians or users and

community groups – to work together and help to make best use of the

synergies across all groups

• identify a clear set of outcomes and actions that are relevant to the

ACT and aligned with those of NSW4

• provide a framework for more detailed planning, monitoring and

reporting of biosecurity programs.

4 http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/biosecurity-strategy

OBJECTIVES OF THE STRATEGY


This strategy is consistent with current ACT and Commonwealth biosecurity legislation and

strategies, as well as national and cross-border agreements, in particular the Intergovernmental

Agreement on Biosecurity, which was developed in response to the Beale review5 of Australia’s

quarantine and biosecurity arrangements.

Biosecurity in the ACT is currently governed by the following legislation and respective subordinate legislation and

supporting strategies and plans:

• Biosecurity Act 2015 (Cth)

• Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth)

• Animal Diseases Act 2005 (ACT)

• Plant Diseases Act 2002 (ACT)

• Pest Plants and Animals Act 2005 (ACT)

• Nature Conservation Act 2014 (ACT)

• Emergencies Act 2004 (ACT)

• Fisheries Act 2000 (ACT)

• ACT Pest Animal Management Strategy 2012 – 2022

• ACT Weeds Strategy 2009 – 2019

• ACT Biosecurity Emergency Plan

Commonwealth LegislationThe Biosecurity Act 2015 (Cth) (the Act) will commence on 16 June 2016. The Act was developed to underpin a more

modern and responsive biosecurity system consistent with the findings of the Beale review.

The Beale review recommended a shift in focus from ‘quarantine’, which has a largely defensive connotation

associated with isolation, to the broader concept of ‘biosecurity’ with an emphasis on managing risk rather than

eliminating it, and a shift from a border focus to encompass fully pre-border and post-border measures.

The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) provides for the protection of the

environment – especially matters of national environmental significance, and controls the international movement of

plants and animals (wildlife), wildlife specimens and products made or derived from wildlife. Trading in wildlife can

pose a serious threat to Australia’s unique biodiversity and to plants and animals around the world.

Wildlife from other parts of the world can present a biosecurity risk if imported into Australia. That’s why Australia

strictly regulates the international movement of animals and plants, and animal and plant products.

5 http://www.agriculture.gov.au/about/annualreport/annual-report-2008-09/annual-report-2008-09/special-report-review-australian-quarantine-biosecurity- bealereview

POLICY CONTEXT


ACT LegislationThe objectives of the Animal Diseases Act 2005 (ACT) and the Plant Diseases Act 2002 (ACT) are to protect the health

and welfare of people and animals and to protect markets relating to animals and plants and associated products.

These Acts provide mechanisms for the detection, prevention and control of outbreaks of endemic and exotic animal

and plant diseases in the ACT, and allow the Territory to assist in the prevention and control of outbreaks of endemic

and exotic animal and plant diseases in other jurisdictions within Australia. The Acts outline procedures for imposing

quarantines, prohibiting entry of material that could spread disease and for dealing with outbreak of diseases or

pests. They provide for the declaration of a notifiable disease or pest.

The objectives of the Pest Plants and Animals Act 2005 (ACT) are to protect the ACT’s land and aquatic resources from

threats from pest plants and pest animals (including fish and invertebrates) and to promote a strategic approach to

pest management. This Act provides for the declaration of various classes of pest plants and animals of concern, the

preparation of pest plant and animal management plans in response to a declaration and establishes authority for the

control of declared pest species. Land managers also have certain responsibilities under this Act.

The Nature Conservation Act 2014 (ACT) provides for the protection and management of native plants and animals,

the identification of threatened species and ecological communities, management of national parks and reserves, and

the conservation of the ACT’s natural resources. It provides for the preparation of a Nature Conservation Strategy and

action plans for threatened and migratory species, threatened ecological communities and key threatening processes.

The Act’s provisions include restrictions on importing and exporting plants or animals that may threaten biodiversity,

penalties for the release of animals from captivity and for taking an invasive plant into a reserve, and for licensing the

import and keeping of exotic wild animals. There is also provision for developing a Controlled Native Species

Management Plan that can provide protection when native plants or animals are having an unacceptable impact on

an environmental, social or economic asset.

The Emergencies ACT 2004 (ACT) provides for the protection and preservation of life, property and the environment

as well as effective emergency management. Emergency events include ‘epidemic or animal disease’ (eg, Foot and

Mouth Disease, Equine Influenza). In a serious biosecurity emergency an emergency controller would be appointed

who can control the movement of people, animals and vehicles in and around the emergency area and take control or

possession of property, animals, substances or things in or near an emergency area.

The Fisheries Act 2000 (ACT) provides for the conservation of native fish species6 and their habitats, sustainable

management of the ACT’s fisheries, and provision of high quality and viable recreational fishing. This Act also

regulates the taking, releasing, selling, exporting and importing of fish. The Act provides for the declaration of noxious

fish species, however, these are routinely declared as pest animals under the ACT Pest Plants and Animals Act 2005.

The Planning and Development Act 2007 (ACT) provides for a Land Management Agreement (LMA) to be entered into

between the Conservator and the lessee upon the granting of a rural lease. Its principal objective is to establish

appropriate sustainable agricultural management practices and good farm biosecurity for the subject land while

maintaining any ecological and cultural values present on the land, and protecting the environment from harm.

As at 2016 the ACT does not have stand-alone biosecurity legislation. This strategy identifies the need for a single

contemporary, consolidated biosecurity act that supports the policy principles identified and is consistent with ACT’s

national and international obligations and responsibilities. Any legislative reforms will also need to be consistent with

the ACT’s human rights obligations under the Human Rights Act 2004 (ACT).

6 Note that threatened native fish species are also protected under the ACT Nature Conservation Act 2014 (ACT).


ACT Strategies and PlansThe ACT Pest Animal Management Strategy 2012 – 2022 sets the framework

and approach for managing the negative impacts of pest animals in the ACT

and provides support to all stakeholders with responsibility for, or interest in,

managing pest animals in the Territory.

The ACT Weeds Strategy 2009 – 2019 aims to reduce the impact of weeds on

the environment, the economy, human health and amenity. It recognises

that weed management is an integral component of sustainable

management of natural resources and the environment, and that weed

management requires an integrated, whole of community and government

approach.

The ACT Emergency Plan and the ACT Biosecurity Emergency Sub-plan

provide the Territory’s emergency response arrangements for responding to

biosecurity emergencies.

Intergovernmental Deeds and AgreementsThe ACT supports a national approach to biosecurity and in January 2012

signed the national agreement on biosecurity between the Commonwealth,

States and Territories – the Intergovernmental Agreement on

Biosecurity (IGAB).

The IGAB strengthens the collaborative approach by the Commonwealth,

States and Territories in managing biosecurity issues. It is underpinned by

three national agreements: the Emergency Animal Disease Response

Agreement (EADRA), the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed (EPPRD) and

the National Environmental Biosecurity Response Agreement (NEBRA). Each

of these agreements includes a number of Commonwealth, State/ Territory

and industry commitments, including that State and Territory level legislation

must be reviewed to ensure consistency with the national approach.

Figure 1 shows the relationship between ACT and Commonwealth

legislation, intergovernmental deeds and agreements and the strategy. In

addition, the strategy is informed by and contributes to ACT strategic plans,

such as the ACT Pest Animal Management Strategy and the ACT Weeds

Strategy. Figure 1 shows key elements in the implementation of the strategy,

which will underpin the biosecurity system in the ACT (see next section).

Review and evaluation of implementation success will provide for continuous

improvement of the strategy.


IMPLEM

ENTATIO

N

Emergency Response PlansAction Plans

DEVELO

PMEN

T OF TH

E BIO

SECURITY STRATEG

Y

Figure 1: Context of the ACT Biosecurity Strategy

• GOAL

• PRINCIPLES

• OUTCOMES

• ACTIONS

Related Legislation (ACT and Commonwealth)

Intergovernmental Deeds and Agreements on biosecurity

ACT Strategic Plans

Review and Evaluation – Continuous Improvement


ACT BIOSECURITY COORDINATION COMMITTEE


Effective biosecurity contributes to the wellbeing and prosperity

of the ACT. We need to manage biosecurity risks effectively to

protect the economy, environment and community.

WHY BIOSECURITY IS IMPORTANT

EconomyAustralian products have preferred access to international markets because they are free of many of the pests and

diseases found elsewhere. For example, an outbreak of a serious animal disease such as foot and mouth disease

would result in the immediate closure of Australia’s largest international markets for livestock and meat products.

Terrestrial and aquatic weeds and introduced pest animal species (pigs, foxes, cats, rabbits, wild dogs) have significant

impacts on the ACT in terms of the cost of management programs and loss of agricultural productivity.

EnvironmentPests and diseases are among the biggest threats to the ACT’s biodiversity and environment. Introduced pest animal

species (eg, pigs, foxes, cats, rabbits, wild dogs, exotic fish) are primary causes of extinctions, contribute to the decline

of many other native plants and animals, cause soil erosion and damage aquatic environments.

Environmental weeds are one of the most significant threats to biodiversity in the ACT. They displace native species,

reduce habitat quality, modify vegetation structure and alter ecological functions. For example serrated tussock, a

perennial, drought-resistant highly invasive tussock-forming grass, can develop into a monoculture within a few of

years when left uncontrolled, completely excluding other vegetation. It can colonise both native and

introduced pastures.

Exotic pests and diseases such as parasites of fish, dieback fungus (Phytophthora cinnamomi) and myrtle rust are an

additional threat to biodiversity, with the potential to affect a wide range of native species.

Photo S Miller


CommunityBiosecurity risks if not adequately managed can directly affect both human health and the community’s ability

to enjoy their surroundings.

Human HealthSome animal diseases can be transmitted from animals to people and cause disease and death. Examples include

avian influenza, swine flu, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), rabies, Hendra virus, anthrax, Menangle virus,

Australian Bat Lyssavirus and bacterial organisms (Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Listeria, Campylobacter).

Public AmenityPeoples’ enjoyment of the outdoors can be adversely affected by some pests and diseases. For example European

wasps, which have spread throughout the ACT since their first observed occurrence in the 1980s, prefer to nest

around human habitation where they can scavenge food and sweet liquids. They can sting repeatedly and the stings

are very painful. Large numbers of wasps can be attracted to picnics and barbecues and interfere with

outdoor activities.

If red imported fire ants, which are currently limited to small areas of Queensland, were to become established in the

ACT, they would seriously impact on our outdoor lifestyle. In the United States, people in fire ant- infested areas have

changed their habits to avoid exposure to the ant. For example, people do not have picnics on the lawn, go barefoot

or sit or lie on the ground or even stand for too long in one spot because they will be stung. The ACT Government

contributes annually to two national programs to eradicate this pest under the NEBRA and a NEBRA-like agreement.

Destruction of a large European wasp nest – Youth Haven Farm Tuggeranong.


The Red Imported Fire Ant (RIFA) originates from South America.

First detected in the Brisbane area in February 2001 the RIFA

has so far been confined to a small area in south east

Queensland.

The RIFA poses a serious social, economic and environmental threat.

Fire ants are very aggressive and are voracious feeders on small ground

fauna, including insects, spiders, lizards, frogs, birds and mammals.

Consequently, fire ants may displace or eliminate some of Australia’s unique

native species. The ants’ habit of eating or damaging seeds can cause major

changes in an ecosystem over time. Fire ants are also predatory, attacking

insects and animals that pollinate native plants.

Newborn or hatching animals are particularly prone to attacks that can lead

to death. Fire ants attack young animals and sting in and around the eyes,

which can lead to blindness; and around the mouth and nose, which can

lead to swelling and suffocation.

Fire ants sometimes feed on seeds, and can fatally damage some plants by

tunnelling through roots and stems. They protect some species of pest

insects that produce ‘honeydew’. This downgrades the quality of produce

and assists in the spread of some diseases.

Fire ants will also feed on important biological control agents and interfere

with integrated pest management practices.

Fire ant mounds can destroy equipment such as irrigation systems and can

also damage machinery during harvesting operations.

Fire ants also invade the food and water supplies of animals. The animals are

unable to reach the food or water without being seriously stung, and this

can lead to starvation and dehydration.

Stings from fire ants can cause a painful, burning itching sensation, which

can last for up to an hour. Multiple stings give the sensation that the body

is on fire.

There have been no detection’s of

RIFA in the ACT or surrounding

NSW. ‘High risk’ enterprises in the

ACT include garden centres,

interstate removalists and their

storage facilities, and fruit and

vegetable wholesalers.

CASE STUDY RED IMPORTED FIRE ANTPhotos Q

ueensland Government Departm

ent of Agriculture and Fisheries


Shared responsibility

This strategy recognises that biosecurity is a shared responsibility. Maintaining and improving the

ACT’s biosecurity status is the responsibility of stakeholders such as governments, industry, natural

resource managers, land custodians or users, educational and research institutions and the

community (Table 1). This strategy aims to strengthen the cooperation between all stakeholders in

managing the ACT’s biosecurity.

Table 1: Major Stakeholders Roles and Responsibilities

Stakeholders Biosecurity Management objectives

Responsibilities

ACT Government

Government veterinarians, Chief Plant Protection Officer, pest plant and animal managers – Parks and Conservation Service (PCS) and City Services, Environment and Planning Directorate, Emergency Services Agency, ACT Policing and ACT Health

Protect agricultural industries, biodiversity and social amenity values from incursions of pests and diseases in rural and urban areas of the ACT.

Undertake biosecurity surveillance, eradication, containment and management programs in accordance with statutory requirements and intergovernmental agreements that address potential and actual pest and disease threats to rural industry, the natural environment and public amenities.

Detect and report notifiable and prohibited pest plants and animal occurrences.

Maintain a competent biosecurity emergency response capability.

Provide leadership and coordination of biosecurity programs across different land uses and tenure.

Deliver nationally consistent biosecurity outcomes through cooperation with regional and national forums and networks.

Contribute to biosecurity research and education programs.

Promote wider public understanding and awareness through community engagement and provision of information on pest and disease impacts and management issues.

Undertake, monitor and evaluate government-funded pest and disease management programs.

Regulators – Licensing and Compliance, Transport Canberra and City Services Directorate (TCCSD)

License plant and animal imports and exports; inspect premises and facilities for licence compliance and prohibited pest plants and animal species.

Implement regulatory requirements and support programs that encourage responsible importing, exporting and of keeping of plants and animals with the potential to be a threat to biosecurity.

Maintain a register of importers and keepers of pest plants and animals.

KEY COMPONENTS OF THE BIOSECURITY SYSTEM



Responsibilities

Legislation and policy makers – Environment and Planning Directorate (EPD)

Develop and amend biosecurity related legislation and policies that guide emergency preparedness, response, management and regulation.

Provide legislative and policy frameworks that protect the biosecurity of the ACT and surrounding region.

Consider stakeholder and community interests in policy development.

ACT Biosecurity Coordination Committee

Minimise the risk of entry, establishment or spread of exotic and endemic pests and diseases that have the potential to cause significant harm to people, animals, plants and the ACT’s environment.

Identify potential, emerging and established biosecurity threats and risk processes for the ACT.

Advise on ranking of priorities for biosecurity action on a risk management basis.

Advise on risks and best practice management for priority species and assets.

Provide advice and leadership for coordinated surveillance, management and monitoring programs across the biosecurity continuum.

Develop and implement an annual action plan.

Promote communication between relevant stakeholders and provide advice and leadership to achieve strategic, coordinated biosecurity management across conservation, rural and urban lands in the ACT.

Advise on training requirements and priorities to ensure that ACT Government officers have core competencies for managing a biosecurity emergency and delivering effective operational outcomes.

Liaise and cooperate with NSW and Commonwealth stakeholders (and other jurisdictions as required) to deliver whole-of-ACT and cross-border biosecurity management outcomes.

Ensure biosecurity management initiatives are consistent with ACT policies and legislation, and with national policies and legislation to which the ACT is subordinate, or is a member or signatory.

Deliver the strategic actions agreed in the ACT Biosecurity Strategy.

Commissioner for Sustainability and the Environment

Monitor the impact and management of pest plants and animals on biodiversity in the ACT.

Provide recommendations to the ACT Government regarding pest plant and animal management through State of Environment reports, referred investigations and complaint resolution processes.



Responsibilities

Australian Government – Managers of National Lands

Manage pest plant and animals to maintain public amenities and safety; manage in accordance with specific land uses.

Manage in accordance with Commonwealth legislation.

Detect and report notifiable and prohibited pest plant and animal occurrences.

Collaborate with other ACT land managers on coordinated pest plant and animal management programs to enhance outcomes on adjacent land management areas and maximise efficiency and benefits.

Provide input to Australian and ACT Government legislation, policy, regulation and management frameworks.

NSW Government agencies

Effectively manage biosecurity pests and diseases in NSW including regions adjacent to the ACT border.

Collaborate with ACT biosecurity stakeholders to address management issues and to develop and implement coordinated cross-border biosecurity emergency response and management programs to maximise efficiency and mutual benefits.

ACT rural landholders Implement sound farm biosecurity and biodiversity management practices to protect the property from the entry and spread of pests and diseases6.

Recognise the nature and causes of pest and disease impacts on agriculture and biodiversity.

Detect and report notifiable and prohibited pest and disease occurrences.

Manage pest and disease problems using appropriate techniques and practices.

Cooperate with adjacent land managers to deliver positive pest and disease management outcomes.

Provide input to government legislation, policy, regulation and management frameworks.

Protect threatened species and communities through implementation of Land Management Agreements.

Utilities Assist in preventing the spread of pests and diseases

Comply with sound farm biosecurity practices.

Notify farm or land manager before entering a rural property or nature reserve.

Wash down vehicles prior to entering a property and remain on formed roads.

ACT Aboriginal community

Prevent damage to native plants, animals and ecosystems, and cultural assets of significance to the Aboriginal community.

Recognise the nature and causes of pest plant and animal impacts on significant native plants, animals and ecosystems, and cultural assets.

Advise the ACT Government and other land managers of impacts on significant assets and work collaboratively to reduce, remove or restore damage.

Provide input into government legislation, policy, regulation and management frameworks.

7 http://www.farmbiosecurity.com.au



Responsibilities

Plant and animal biosecurity researchers

Improve understanding of the biology and ecology of biosecurity pests and diseases and research on management practices.

Support research to address gaps in knowledge on biosecurity pests and diseases and management techniques and practices, in collaboration with stakeholders.

Ensure research outcomes are delivered to relevant stakeholders.

Horticulturists and plant nurseries. Animal traders, breeders and keepers

Avoid importing, exporting, keeping, breeding and sale of potential pest plants and animals for commercial purposes and/or personal interest.

Refrain from the import or propagation/breeding and cultivation/keeping of pest plants and animals declared as prohibited species in the ACT

Obtain a licence and registration, when required, to import, export, keep, sell and take plant and animal species, or release them from captivity.

Maintain records in accordance with licence requirements.

Minimise the risk of escape of species with pest plant or animal potential.

Report escapes in accordance with legislative requirements.

Promote awareness and understanding of pest plant and animal management issues by industry, trade, keeper and breeder groups.


Community members and groups

Voluntary leadership and participation in the management of private and public lands including conservation (eg, National Parks Association; Conservation Council), Park Care and catchment groups.

Ensuring that threats to conservation are appropriately managed.

Provide leadership and coordination for local group development and action on pest animal problems.

Cooperate with other land managers and rural landholders to achieve local and regional pest plant and animal management outcomes.

Promote awareness and understanding of pest plant and animal issues amongst community groups.

Represent members’ interests at pest plant and animal management networks and forums.


Travellers to the ACT Prevent the introduction of biosecurity pests and diseases into the ACT.

Comply with any quarantine requirements when entering the ACT.


The ACT Government works with the Australian Government and other state and territory governments to develop

and implement intergovernmental deeds and agreements and other national biosecurity initiatives (Figure 2).

Coordination is achieved through the National Biosecurity Committee and its sectoral committees under the guidance

of the Agriculture Ministers’ Forum and Agriculture Senior Officials Committee. Under emergency response deeds and

agreements for nationally significant pests and diseases (generally those that affect or have the potential to affect

more than one jurisdiction), a National Management Group convenes to address each new pest or disease incursion,

with technical advice provided by a supporting Consultative Committee.

Figure 2: Arrangements supporting Australia’s biosecurity system in 2015.

1 The Invasive Plants and Animal Commi�ee has replaced the Australian Weeds Commi�ee and the Vertebrate Pests Commi�ee

The Invasive Plants and Animal Commi�ee1


The ACT is not an islandThe ACT is unique in its location. Unlike the other Australian states and the Northern Territory, the ACT is surrounded

by another jurisdiction (NSW) and has no coastline. These differences must be taken into account when considering

biosecurity risk management. There are no natural barriers to incursions and given the potential for cross-border

incursions to occur, the ACT must work cooperatively and collaboratively with NSW to identify and address

biosecurity risks.

Current cross-border arrangements with NSW that help to reduce the ACT’s biosecurity risk include close operational

cooperation with regional Local Land Services and a Memorandum of Understanding on Agricultural and

Animal Related Emergencies.

The ACT would benefit from greater collaboration with NSW on joint staff training programs, participation in NSW

emergency responses and access to NSW biosecurity information systems and beekeeper registration.

Appropriate Level of ProtectionThis strategy recognises that zero biosecurity risk is unattainable and supports the concept of an Appropriate Level of

Protection as determined by the Australian Government in accordance with the World Trade Organisation’s Sanitary

and Phytosanitary Agreement under the provisions of the IGAB.

The Appropriate Level of Protection for Australia is a high level of sanitary and phytosanitary protection aimed at

reducing biosecurity risks to a very low level, but not zero.

Biosecurity continuumThe biosecurity continuum refers to the range of locations where biosecurity risks may arise – pre-border, at the

border and post-border – and the activities undertaken across these locations. An integrated biosecurity system

involves risk assessment and monitoring, surveillance and response across all three elements of the continuum

(ie, pre-border, at the border and post-border). Each member of the community has a role to play across the

biosecurity continuum to prevent, prepare for, detect and mitigate biosecurity risks, and respond to, manage and

recover from biosecurity incidents should they occur. However, responsibility for primary oversight of pre-border and

border biosecurity arrangements lies with the Australian Government, and primary oversight of post-border

biosecurity arrangements lies with state and territory governments.

Risk-managementDecision-making and investment decisions must be based on a sound risk-management framework that considers the

economic, environmental and community benefits and costs of each option. This is particularly relevant to a small

jurisdiction with limited resources such as the ACT.

The ACT therefore needs to develop a biosecurity risk management system that will identify and prioritise known

threats and help prepare for the unknown.


Prioritising biosecurity investmentsThe ACT Government has many calls on its budget. It is important that investment in biosecurity is directed to where

return on investment is highest. Figure 3 illustrates the return on investment for different phases of a generalised

invasion curve and appropriate actions for management. It highlights that a high return on investment is achieved

through preventing entry of exotic and new threats, followed by early intervention and eradication if they do appear

as opposed to investing in the management of widely established invasive species. This principle can generally be

applied across the board to all pests and diseases. However, there are exceptions, for example, the use of biological

control agents to manage widely established pest species such as rabbits can provide a high return on investment.

Also, focusing resources on surveillance activities is not always cost effective if efforts are poorly targeted and no

detections are made.

Figure 3: Appropriate management actions and economic returns at different phases of a generalised invasion curve

(sourced from Biosecurity Victoria, Department of Primary Industries, Victoria).

AREA

OCC

UPI

ED

TIME

ASSET BASED PROTECTION

PREVENTION

CONTAINMENT

ERADICATION

ECONOMIC RETURNS (indicative only)

Entry of invasive species

1:1–5ASSET BASED PROTECTION

1:100PREVENTION

1:25ERADICATION

1:5–10CONTAINMENT

Invasive species widespread and abundant throughout its potential range

Species absent

Rapid incresase indistribution and abundance,many populations

Small numberof localisedpopulations


To assist in prioritising where to invest scarce resources and what approach to take, the Territory will use the NSW

Department of Primary Industries’ Biosecurity Threat Decision Tree as shown in Appendix A. This model, which is

based on economic principles, ensures that biosecurity investment decisions are made as objectively as possible.

It determines whether a role for government exists in relation to a specific problem by using ‘market’ failure tests.

It guides the user to identify one of several government activities or programs that have the potential to address the

problem in question and where appropriate the most appropriate cost recovery mechanism.

Science-based decision-makingRisk assessments, decisions and investments must be underpinned by robust scientific evidence. Access to leading-

edge, rapid diagnostics and scientific knowledge to guide treatment and control strategies is important, particularly

during an emergency. Being a small jurisdiction, the ACT does not have the capacity to maintain its own diagnostic

and research facilities and must rely on interstate public sector and private cooperation. Better linkages will need to

be formed with NSW and Victorian facilities, the CSIRO, cooperative research centres, universities and the health

sector to support rapid decision making in relation to ACT emergency incursions.

Appropriate support mechanismsAn effective biosecurity system must be supported by modern legislation, technology, funding and business systems

which support quick response and seamless cross-border cooperation in the event of a biosecurity emergency.

Continual improvementTo ensure continual improvement in biosecurity, this strategy and its supporting documents will be reviewed and

evaluated periodically in consultation with key stakeholders, and consequential changes made as required.

Photo L Padgham


Strategic leadership and coordination is provided by the ACT Biosecurity

Coordination Committee (BCC) which oversees the development and

implementation of effective and integrated biosecurity legislation, policy and

management programs. An ACT Weeds Advisory Group and a Pest Animal

Management Group are subordinate groups that support the BCC.

GOVERNANCEPhoto M

t Majura Vineyard


Pests and diseases can inflict damage to our crops, livestock

and farm profits, to our unique environment, urban amenity

and occasionally on our human health.

To date Australia’s geographic isolation, a history of strong quarantine measures and world class science and research

capabilities have spared us from some of the serious impacts of exotic pests and diseases that circulate around the

world. However, we are becoming increasingly vulnerable to their entry with increasing global trade and

interconnectedness, and Australia is facing a greater challenge in protecting itself against biosecurity threats.

A changing climate, increases in the movement of plants, animals and people, together with declining levels of

expertise and resources in the biosecurity system, is placing pressure on Australia’s future ability to protect itself from

exotic pest and disease threats, from emerging threats closer to home and to some established pests and diseases

that represent an ongoing challenge.

According to the CSIRO the threat of invasive species to biodiversity is second only to habitat destruction. The CSIRO8

(2014) estimates that alien invertebrate and vertebrate pest animals and weeds cost Australia at least $7 billion a

year. In 2014/15 the ACT spent $2.6 million on environmental weeds and vertebrate pests. It is estimated that 25% of

costs to Australian consumers associated with food products are due to invasive pests and diseases. Weeds alone cost

Australia approximately $4 billion in control measures and loss of production each year.

Over the past three decades 70% of emerging diseases in people have originated in animals. Hendra virus,

Coronaviruses like SARS and avian influenza are just a few diseases that fall within this category (CSIRO, 2013)9.

There are a number of key factors influencing Australia’s and the Territory’s increasing biosecurity risk exposure.

These are described below.

Climate changeModelling undertaken on behalf of the ACT and NSW Governments10

suggests that the effects of climate change in the ACT are likely to include:

• warmer average temperatures leading to more severe drought and

extreme bushfire weather

• less overall rainfall with a change in the seasonal distribution and more

frequent intense storm events.

Changes in climate will mean that for some species to survive they will need

to either relocate or adapt. For other species the new climatic conditions

will provide an opportunity for them to establish or to extend their range.

A good example of this in the ACT is Madagascan Fireweed.

8 Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Biosecurity http://www.csiro.au/en/Research/BF

9 http://www.csiro.au/en/Research/BF

10 See ACT Planning Strategy http://www.planning.act.gov.au/tools_resources/legislation_plans_registers/plans/planning_strategy

MANAGING RISK – RESPONDING TO INCREASING CHALLENGES

MANAGING RISK – RESPONDING TO INCREASING CHALLENGES


Pests will generally extend southwards and to higher altitudes as a result of warming trends. Likely impacts of climate

change are listed below:

• an increase in the risk of invasion by alien organisms new to Australia

• habitats will adapt and change in response to the changes in climatic conditions

• habitats affected by extreme climatic events may leave empty niches which pest animals and weeds colonise

• existing native or exotic species that were not previously pest species (‘sleeper’ species) could thrive under the

changing conditions and become pest species

• the demise of native or exotic species may provide the opportunity for other ‘sleeper’ pest species to establish

or increase their range due the lack of competition or natural control measures such as predation or grazing

• extreme storm events could lead to the escape of exotic animals which could then establish wild populations

that have the potential to become pests

• increases in flood events and flood mitigation measures could also increase the rate of spread of aquatic pest

plants and animals

• increases in fire and drought will favour the establishment of some weeds.

In responding to climate change challenges, the ACT has developed a Climate Change Adaptation Strategy. This

adaptation strategy will help identify key impacts and risks for the agriculture sector, allowing it to better plan for

the future and enabling regional food security.

GlobalisationGlobalisation is integrating the world economy and increasing the volume and range of products traded

internationally.

Increases in tourism and a greater demand for international goods have contributed to a growth in passenger and

cargo movements, all of which increase the risk of exotic pest and disease incursions despite the best efforts of

border security. Australia’s biosecurity is particularly vulnerable to the influx of goods from the Asian sub-continent as

these countries host many new and emerging diseases but may lack the resources to manage biosecurity challenges.

The risk is increased where poor socio-economic conditions exist in the country of origin.

Modern communications, in particular the internet, are increasing the trade in exotic plant and animal species for

pets and commercial use and this increases the risk to our biosecurity. There has also been an increase in global

movements of genetic material as farmers endeavour to increase productivity, which places particular demands on

pre and post-border biosecurity services.

Population growthPopulation spread into new habitats, the urbanisation of rural regions, and increasingly intensive agriculture all

complicate the ability to contain a pest or disease incursion and the risk of zoonoses.

New diseases and pestsNew pests and diseases are emerging from a range of sources such as trade including an increase in internet trading,

changing environmental conditions driven by climate trends, ornamental plants escaping from home gardens and

increased visitation to natural areas.


The plant forms a persistent seed bank if not controlled before it flowers.

It can also rapidly take over heavily grazed and neglected pastures and

roadsides, competing strongly with existing plants. It seeds prolifically and

grows to maturity quickly.

Madagascan Fireweed reproduces almost exclusively by seed. It can alter its

germination response, adapting its growing and flowering behaviours to suit

changing environmental conditions. The weed is commonly found in coastal

areas of NSW and is an occasional occurrence in the surrounding regions.

The first incursion of Madagascan Fireweed occurred in the ACT in 2011.

Since that time small infestations have been detected and have quickly been

brought under control. However, in July 2014 significant infestations of

Madagascan Fireweed were discovered in a number of ACT suburbs after

it was introduced in couch turf and landscape materials sourced from

interstate. The ACT Government responded quickly, activating its Biosecurity

Emergency Plan.

CASE STUDY: MADAGASCAN FIREWEED (SENECIO MADAGASCARIENSIS)

A public awareness campaign was

initiated to alert the public of the

risks associated with the weed, to

assist them in the identification of

the weed and to inform them of

what they should do if they see this

weed. ACT Government staff

responded to reported sightings,

working to control the incursion as

quickly as possible and to remove

the plant before it flowered and its

seeds spread. A monitoring

program was then put in place to

ensure any further outbreaks are

controlled quickly.

Madagascan Fireweed is a Weed of National Significance and a Prohibited Pest Plant in the ACT. It

is poisonous to horses and cattle and has the potential to invade native grasslands and quickly

degrade agricultural pasture. Control costs can be high.


Financial constraintsGovernments need to allocate scarce revenue among many competing demands so it is essential that costs of

ensuring biosecurity are shared fairly across all risk creators and beneficiaries, and government funding is directed to

the areas of greatest risk and greatest public benefit. Limited resources mean a limited capacity to undertake pest

management programs or regulatory activities such as regular inspection of plant nurseries, pet shops, imported soil,

fodder and turf, and markets and fetes.

Lack of knowledgeThere is likely to be an emerging shortage of highly qualified plant and animal pest and disease professionals – partly

associated with ‘baby boomer’ retirements and partly the result of competing career alternatives.

There are often gaps in knowledge and understanding relating to pest species due to lack of existing information,

related research or effective extension of research outcomes. This is particularly relevant to new and emerging pests.

Emerging risksChanging agricultural and socio-economic conditions and the growth of Canberra will present new biosecurity risks in

the future. The Canberra Airport will commence catering for international flights in 2016 and the Master Plan for the

airport includes an intention to use its 24-hour status to become Sydney’s freight airport. This will provide a direct

pathway for exotic overseas pests and diseases to enter into the ACT and require establishment of stronger

quarantine border controls. The return of defence aircraft from overseas direct to the Fairbairn Air Force facility is

another potential entry point for new pests and diseases that threaten the Territory’s biosecurity. The ACT

Government will need to work closely with the Australian Government to tighten border biosecurity through these

entry points.

Likely future peri-urban development, including growth in smaller scale farming and lifestyle enterprises in rural

communities, the growing popularity of urban agriculture ventures in an around the ACT and a culture of non-

traditional crops and livestock, will increase the range of biosecurity pest and disease threats which may have to be

responded to.

Meeting community expectations for greater variety and availability of food, garden and amenity plants and for new

and exotic animals also creates new pathways for the introduction of pests and diseases to the primary industries and

environmental sectors.

The growth in pesticide resistance amongst existing weed and pest species is also of concern. Poor practices in the

use of chemicals and antibiotics used to treat pests and diseases can lead to resistance to treatments and make weed

species more difficult to control.

The ACT Biosecurity Strategy will apply the precautionary principle to emerging risks and assume a steadily increasing

biosecurity threat from external sources such as trade and the movement of goods and services entering the ACT.


The Red-eared Slider Turtle is an American species which cannot

be kept legally in Australia as it has become an invasive pest

animal in several states. It is important to prevent this species

spreading through the Murray-Darling Basin. Keeping of other

related species is also illegal. To date two Red-eared Slider

Turtles have been found in the ACT, one was an escaped pet

and the other was found living in a dam near the

Murrumbidgee River.

Some aquarium plants and animals, exotic reptiles and ferrets are all animals

that have a proven record of establishing in the wild near the ACT.

CASE STUDY: CASE STUDY – RED-EARED SLIDER TURTLE


The ACT is a small jurisdiction which demands innovative solutions for

meeting our biosecurity responsibilities. These will include:

• prioritising biosecurity resources and investment to areas of greatest

biosecurity risk and impact

• developing a contemporary legislative framework and reducing the

regulatory burden and compliance costs facing ACT residents when they

manage pests and diseases, while improving regulatory capacity

• taking a more strategic approach to the science that underpins

biosecurity and the adoption of technology through stronger

partnerships, particularly with our universities and the CSIRO, better

linkages with the national industry groups based in Canberra and better

extension with local industries

• increasing the awareness of biosecurity in government, industry and the

community to get more people involved in managing biosecurity risks

and help them understand the role they play

• building the capability of Canberrans to undertake biosecurity activities

and deliver biosecurity services in partnership with Government

• forming stronger linkages and increasing cooperation and coordination

with NSW and other jurisdictions to reduce the risk of incursions and

improve our capacity to address them

• identifying suitable funding sources, including cost sharing where

appropriate, to support biosecurity activity

IMPLEMENTATION, REPORTING, REVIEW AND EVALUATIONThe Biosecurity Coordination Committee (BCC) oversees the Territory’s

biosecurity governance arrangements and is responsible for implementation,

reporting and review of this strategy. The BCC will report on the

implementation of the strategy as part of the ACT Government’s Annual

Report with additional independent reporting by the Commissioner for

Sustainability and the Environment every four years.

Interim reviews of the strategy will be conducted annually with a formal

review and evaluation after five years. A review will include as a minimum an

evaluation of the implementation of the actions based on performance

indicators. The strategy will also be reviewed as required to ensure that it is

up-to-date and reflects current legislation, scientific knowledge, technical

expertise and management practices.

BUILDING BIOSECURITY CAPABILITY AND CAPACITYPhoto M

ichael Machonachie

Photo L Padgham


CASE STUDY: EQUINE INFLUENZA NATIONAL STANDSTILL

Early on Saturday 25 August 2007 the ACT was notified that horses suspected of having a highly

virulent exotic disease called Equine Influenza (EI) had been detected in an equestrian centre in

Sydney. By that afternoon a national standstill was declared that prevented the ACT’s 2,500 horses

from being moved until further notice. A Local Disease Crisis Centre was established to manage

the ACT response and all horses in horse studs, riding schools, farms and government horse

holding paddocks were quarantined. Border controls and road blocks were put in place on that

evening to prevent the entry into or exit of horses from the ACT.

On 21 September 2007 NSW introduced a zoning system to govern horse

movements as part of the Equine Influenza Protection Plan, which also

included the ACT. The aim of the zoning system was to keep the area of

infection within containment lines, whilst enabling movement under strict

movement guidelines applicable to each zone.

These restrictions remained in place until the 27 September 2007 when the

ACT was classified as a green zone which allowed a relaxation of the

movement of equine species within this zone. This allowed riders and

industry reliant on public riding to again undertake these activities on their

property without a permit, and outside of their property with a permit.

On 28 February 2008, the NSW

Government declared that EI had

been eradicated, lifting most of the

remaining movement restrictions

on horses.

The outbreak had a significant

financial and social impact on the

ACT horse industry and severely

strained the resources of

responding ACT Government

agencies.

The success of the national EI

response is reflected in the fact that

Australia is one of only a few

countries that have eradicated EI.

Photo SMH


OUTCOME 1. Biosecurity is recognised as a shared responsibility by Government, industry and the community

Actions Performance Indicator/s Responsibility TimeframeShort-term (up to 2 yrs)Medium-term (2-5 yrs)Long-term (> 5 yrs)

1.1 The ACT Biosecurity Coordination Committee (BCC) oversees the ACT’s biosecurity arrangements to minimise the risk of entry, establishment or spread of pests and diseases that have the potential to cause significant harm to people, animals, plants and the ACT’s unique environment

BCC Terms of Reference reviewed annually to ensure that activities remain targeted at the highest biosecurity risks and greatest public benefit

BCC membership is reviewed annually and consists of representatives from across the ACT Government with the relevant skills and knowledge to make a positive contribution to the ACT’s biosecurity

ACT Government (BCC)

Annual

1.2 The BCC will form collaborative working relationships with its counterparts in other jurisdictions (states, territory and Commonwealth) and relevant industries to facilitate the timely exchange of information. This will ensure that the ACT is informed and involved at all levels of biosecurity management and related decision-making processes

Working relationships have been formed and, where necessary, arrangements such as memoranda of understanding (MOU) have been agreed to

(eg ACT and NSW Memorandum of Understanding for Regional Collaboration)

ACT Government (EPD & TCSCD)

Other jurisdictions including NSW and Commonwealth Government

Industry representatives.

Ongoing

1.3 ACT representation at relevant regional and national conferences, meetings, workshops, activities and on committees

ACT represented on regional and national sectoral committees and at conference, meetings and workshops (eg the National Biosecurity Committee and its subordinate groups)

ACT representatives report on regional and national engagement to BCC

ACT Government (EPD)

Annual

1.4 Provide support for and work collaboratively with community groups (eg. rural landholders, Friends of organisations, Landcare, Conservation Volunteers, Equestrians) to deliver improved biosecurity outcomes for the ACT.

Project applications assessed and, where appropriate, support is provided for biosecurity- related projects with a public benefit component and other relevant strategies such as the climate change adaptation strategy

Community groups engaged in the management of biosecurity in the ACT including integration of community activities into annual operations plans and reporting


Ongoing

OUTCOMES AND ACTIONS FOR IMPLEMENTING THE ACT BIOSECURITY STRATEGY


OUTCOME 1. Biosecurity is recognised as a shared responsibility by Government, industry and the community


1.5 Explore new partnership options with key ACT stakeholders

New partnerships are formed and engaged in the management of biosecurity in the ACT

Relevant ACT stakeholders invited to participate in BCC (or subordinate group meetings) where appropriate to specific biosecurity issues


See key ACT stakeholders in Table 1 of the strategy.

Ongoing

1.6 Promote public awareness of priority biosecurity issues in the ACT through appropriate communication channels

Web-based information, signage, media releases, brochures and leaflets are available at strategic locations as well as targeted mail-outs, information sessions, mobile displays, television and radio

Communication activities reported through the annual review process for subordinate strategies (weeds and pest animals) and other relevant strategies such as the climate change adaptation strategy, or to the BCC

Public awareness has increased. To be measured through survey and through an increase in community participation

Increases in compliance and reporting

ACT Government (BCC)

Short-term

1.7 Industry-wide biosecurity plans relevant to the ACT are identified and their implementation by industry in the ACT is supported

Biosecurity arrangements discussed with ACT peak bodies and industry participants.

Assistance provided by ACT Government in implementation of industry-wide biosecurity plans where appropriate

ACT Government (EPD) & industry representatives

Medium-term

1.8 Ensure Land Management Agreements (LMA) for rural leases include the identification and management of pests and diseases and outline the landholder responsibilities in terms of biosecurity

LMAs address pest and disease management and outline biosecurity responsibilities.

Review of the LMA (occurs every 5 years) to determine compliance

EPD and rural landholders

Short-term (ongoing)

1.9 Form collaborative partnerships with education and research institutions to ensure the management of biosecurity issues is based on sound scientific evidence and research

Management of biosecurity issues responds to and reflects scientific evidence and research

BCC

Other state, Australian government and tertiary research agencies

Medium-term (ongoing)


OUTCOME 2: Biosecurity protects the environment and community and contributes to sustainable economic growth


2.1 Provide skilled licensing and compliance officers to monitor and enforce biosecurity matters.

Increase in the number of trained officers and resources for undertaking monitoring and compliance activities

Monitoring and compliance undertaken and penalties applied as necessary

Key areas of non-compliance addressed through education and awareness campaigns (ref: Action 1.6)

ACT Government (EPD & TCSCD)

Short-medium term

2.2 Develop and implement effective biosecurity systems for surveillance and monitoring of existing and potential pests and diseases and product tracing

(eg NLIS, mapping, LMAs, hotlines)

Systems in place that assist in the surveillance, monitoring and tracing of pests and diseases

Pest animals and weeds can be effectively monitored and traced through the delivery of relevant strategic actions under the pest animal, weed and climate change adaptation strategies

Reduced detection and response times for new pest and disease incursions

New incursions reported annually to relevant sectoral committees


Medium-term

2.3 Prepare and maintain an ACT Biosecurity Emergency Plan to address incursions

Biosecurity Emergency Plan has been developed

Biosecurity Emergency Plan is reviewed every five years to ensure consistency with national strategies and policies


Short-term

2.4 Develop and regularly review response plans for high risk pests and diseases

Response Plans developed and reviewed ACT Government (EPD)

Medium-term (ongoing)

2.5 Develop and maintain operational plans for pests and diseases

Up-to-date operational plans for pests and diseases in the ACT


Annual

2.6 Reduce the adverse impacts of established pests and diseases for priority high-value sites and assets

Reduction in adverse impacts or in abundance and/or distribution of pests and diseases demonstrated through effective monitoring, assessment and reporting of control programs

ACT Government (EPD, TCCSD), other stakeholders engaged in coordinated control programs

Annual


OUTCOME 3: Biosecurity is underpinned by a responsive and consistent legislative framework, risk management framework, business systems and training


3.1 Review current biosecurity legislation and amend as necessary to respond to emerging biosecurity threats and reforms in Commonwealth and NSW legislation as well as scientific evidence and new technologies

Updated and harmonised legislation in place ACT Government (EPD)

Short to Medium-term

3.2 Review compliance mechanisms (ie reporting, monitoring and penalties) as part of the review of current biosecurity legislation in the ACT

Review completed and legislative amendments made


Short to Medium-term

3.3 Identify existing pests and diseases in the ACT and ensure lists of declared weeds, pest animals and diseases (Disallowable Instruments under biosecurity legislation) are kept up-to-date

List is updated as necessary on a risk management basis

Lists incorporate nationally- agreed pests and diseases and categorisation is consistent with that of other jurisdictions, eg, the national noxious fish list, Weeds of National Significance


Ongoing

3.4 Develop stand-alone biosecurity legislation for the ACT that incorporates existing pest plants and animals, and plant and animal disease legislation

ACT Biosecurity Act ACT Government (EPD)

Medium to Long-term

3.5 Develop a risk management framework that will help determine the risks associated with identified threats to biosecurity and to inform decisions about allocation of resources

Risk management framework developed and adopted

Incorporate risk management systems already in place such as the NSW Weeds Risk Management System


Short-term


OUTCOME 3: Biosecurity is underpinned by a responsive and consistent legislative framework, risk management framework, business systems and training


3.6 Review subordinate strategies (ie ACT Pest Animal Management Strategy, ACT Weeds Strategy) to ensure consistency with this ACT Biosecurity Strategy and overarching national strategies and frameworks (eg, Australian Weeds Strategy, Australian Pest Animal Strategy, Established Pests and Diseases of National Significance Framework)

Updated strategies that are complementary ACT Government (EPD)

Medium-long term

3.7 Develop and implement an Emergency Response and Preparedness Training Strategy

A strategy has been developed to outline ongoing training requirements for relevant ACT Government staff


Short-term

3.8 Provide ongoing opportunities for delivery of appropriate national, state and territory training to relevant ACT Government employees including licensing and compliance officers and rangers. Extend training opportunities to other ACT biosecurity stakeholders where appropriate

Increase in the number of ACT Government staff participating in relevant training and in the application of the training in licensing and compliance activities

Staff training is sufficient to respond effectively to a pest or disease incursion of national significance in accordance with ACT obligations under the IGAB

Training opportunities are extended to other key ACT biosecurity stakeholders participating in government- coordinated biosecurity activities

ACT Government (EPD, TCCSD)


3.9 Conduct regular biosecurity response simulation exercises as part of staff training and accreditation requirements

Training exercises undertaken and staff accredited. Other biosecurity stakeholders (eg, industry, rural landholders, NSW agencies) participate where appropriate




APPENDIX ABIOSECURITY THREAT DECISION TREE

No

aPPeNdix a: Biosecurity tHreat decisioN tree1. actioN: clearly identify the Nature of the Problem – then conduct a Market Failure test as below

externalities: Would the biosecurity threat be likely to significantly affect

those not directly involved in the risk spreading transaction? For example, the spread of a pest or disease.

1a industry goods: Would the private sector/industry (if left unassisted) fail to

provide an adequate level of investment to remove (or reduce to an acceptable level) the biosecurity threat?

For example, an industry may fail to pay for a monitoring program (that provides industry benefits), due to lack of an appropriate collection/delivery mechanism.

1b asymmetric information: does one party to a transaction have more or

better information than the other party in relation to the biosecurity threat, thus creating an imbalance of power in the transaction? (this includes ‘adverse selection’ and ‘moral hazard’) e.g. sale of stock with oJd.

1c

Market failure present – government action may be justified government action is not required

if provided, a fee on individuals/firms should be

considered first, otherwise cost recovery via a levy on an entire industry should be pursued (see 13a or 13b).

7

do not provide unless industry requests

government involvement and agrees to pay for the provision (this may also require a regulatory basis).

4

11. actioN: conduct a Benefit cost analysis only proceed with options in which benefits are greater than costs.

Would it be necessary to regulate for the provision of this activity/program (e.g. to pursue impactors, establish industry levies, enforce compliance certification, etc)?

3

Would the activity/program involve ‘registration / approvals’ or ‘Compliance / enforcement’?

5 Would the major beneficiaries be a

narrow identifiable group (e.g. individuals or industries)?

6a

Would it be appropriate to recover costs from

the individual risk creator i.e. individuals/firms (through a fee or fine, as opposed to recovering costs from an entire industry through a levy)?

8 Would other individuals/firms be able to free ride

on the approval of the first applicant?

9

compliance / enforcement registration / approvals

Would charging an individual/firm for the

activity/program be efficient and cost effective i.e. are the affected parties identifiable, is there (or could there be) a fee collection mechanism in place and would the amount of money collected be likely to significantly outweigh the administrative costs of doing so?

10a Would ‘group‑based’ cost recovery be both efficient

and cost effective i.e. are the affected parties identifiable, is there (or could there be) a levy collection mechanism in place and would the amount of money collected be likely to significantly outweigh the administrative costs of doing so?

10b

Would any of the identifiable minor beneficiaries

capture enough benefits to warrant paying for the provision (sufficiency principle)?

6b


activity/ program be efficient and cost effective i.e. are the affected parties identifiable, is there (or could there be) a fee collection mechanism in place and would the amount of money collected be likely to significantly outweigh the administrative costs of doing so?



10b

10a 10b 10a10b

if the impacts of the biosecurity threat lie solely within one sector or industry, the responsible funding party (government/levied industry) may decide for the proposed biosecurity activity/program not to be

provided. otherwise…

12

Cost recovery via Fee on individuals/firms

13a Cost recovery via levy on individuals/firms

provision with No cost recovery

(taxpayer funding)

13b Cost recovery via Fee on individuals/firms

13aCost recovery via levy on individuals/firms

13b

provision with cost recovery @ coMMercial cost

*a+b+C+d+e

*cost recovery components

a – salaries and on‑costs

b – operating expenses

C – overheads

d – return on assets

e – profit margin

provision with cost recovery @ Fully distriButed cost

*a+b+C+d

provision with cost recovery @ avoidaBle cost

*a+b+C

provision with cost recovery @ MargiNal cost

*a+b

Cost recovery fee or levy set to achieve fully distributed cost recovery

15

Would there be actual or potential competition for the provision of this activity/program?

14

Would the provision of this activity/ program involve additional data collection, analysis or research beyond what is already taxpayer funded?

16

provision of this activity/program involves the further dissemination of a basic product.

17

No No

y es

2. actioN: devise a Proposed Biosecurity Program or activity the proposed intervention should be designed to overcome the specific market failure identified above (see notes). (the component parts of each activity/program should be considered separately through the remaining part of this diagram.)

y es

y es

y es N o

y es

y esN o

No

N o

N o y es

yes

yes y es y es y es

No

N o

N oN o

No No

No

No

yes

yes

y es y es y es y es

regulatory

regulatory

non‑regulatory

non‑regulatory

44 nsW bioseCurity strateGy 2013–2021 bioseCurity: a shared responsibility 45


No

aPPeNdix a: Biosecurity tHreat decisioN tree1. actioN: clearly identify the Nature of the Problem – then conduct a Market Failure test as below

externalities: Would the biosecurity threat be likely to significantly affect

those not directly involved in the risk spreading transaction? For example, the spread of a pest or disease.

1a industry goods: Would the private sector/industry (if left unassisted) fail to

provide an adequate level of investment to remove (or reduce to an acceptable level) the biosecurity threat?

For example, an industry may fail to pay for a monitoring program (that provides industry benefits), due to lack of an appropriate collection/delivery mechanism.

1b asymmetric information: does one party to a transaction have more or

better information than the other party in relation to the biosecurity threat, thus creating an imbalance of power in the transaction? (this includes ‘adverse selection’ and ‘moral hazard’) e.g. sale of stock with oJd.

1c

Market failure present – government action may be justified government action is not required

if provided, a fee on individuals/firms should be

considered first, otherwise cost recovery via a levy on an entire industry should be pursued (see 13a or 13b).

7

do not provide unless industry requests

government involvement and agrees to pay for the provision (this may also require a regulatory basis).

4

11. actioN: conduct a Benefit cost analysis only proceed with options in which benefits are greater than costs.

Would it be necessary to regulate for the provision of this activity/program (e.g. to pursue impactors, establish industry levies, enforce compliance certification, etc)?

3

Would the activity/program involve ‘registration / approvals’ or ‘Compliance / enforcement’?

5 Would the major beneficiaries be a

narrow identifiable group (e.g. individuals or industries)?

6a

Would it be appropriate to recover costs from

the individual risk creator i.e. individuals/firms (through a fee or fine, as opposed to recovering costs from an entire industry through a levy)?

8 Would other individuals/firms be able to free ride

on the approval of the first applicant?

9

compliance / enforcement registration / approvals


activity/program be efficient and cost effective i.e. are the affected parties identifiable, is there (or could there be) a fee collection mechanism in place and would the amount of money collected be likely to significantly outweigh the administrative costs of doing so?



10b

Would any of the identifiable minor beneficiaries

capture enough benefits to warrant paying for the provision (sufficiency principle)?

6b


activity/ program be efficient and cost effective i.e. are the affected parties identifiable, is there (or could there be) a fee collection mechanism in place and would the amount of money collected be likely to significantly outweigh the administrative costs of doing so?



10b

10a 10b 10a10b

if the impacts of the biosecurity threat lie solely within one sector or industry, the responsible funding party (government/levied industry) may decide for the proposed biosecurity activity/program not to be

provided. otherwise…

12

Cost recovery via Fee on individuals/firms

13a Cost recovery via levy on individuals/firms

provision with No cost recovery

(taxpayer funding)

13b Cost recovery via Fee on individuals/firms

13aCost recovery via levy on individuals/firms

13b

provision with cost recovery @ coMMercial cost

*a+b+C+d+e

*cost recovery components

a – salaries and on‑costs

b – operating expenses

C – overheads

d – return on assets

e – profit margin

provision with cost recovery @ Fully distriButed cost

*a+b+C+d

provision with cost recovery @ avoidaBle cost

*a+b+C

provision with cost recovery @ MargiNal cost

*a+b

Cost recovery fee or levy set to achieve fully distributed cost recovery

15

Would there be actual or potential competition for the provision of this activity/program?

14

Would the provision of this activity/ program involve additional data collection, analysis or research beyond what is already taxpayer funded?

16

provision of this activity/program involves the further dissemination of a basic product.

17

No No

y es

2. actioN: devise a Proposed Biosecurity Program or activity the proposed intervention should be designed to overcome the specific market failure identified above (see notes). (the component parts of each activity/program should be considered separately through the remaining part of this diagram.)

y es

y es

y es N o

y es

y esN o

No

N o

N o y es

yes

yes y es y es y es

No

N o

N oN o

No No

No

No

yes

yes

y es y es y es y es

regulatory

regulatory

non‑regulatory

non‑regulatory

44 nsW bioseCurity strateGy 2013–2021 bioseCurity: a shared responsibility 45

Photo L Padgham


GLOSSARY

Term Definition

Climate change Increasing greenhouse gas concentrations resulting in changes to the pattern of temperature, rainfall (volume, frequency and distribution), solar radiation, humidity, and evaporation.

Emergency Animal Disease Response Agreement

Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed

National Emergency Biosecurity Response Agreement

Agreements signed by the ACT Government which include Federal, State jurisdictions as well as industry. The agreement allows for the contribution of funding on a shared basis when a defined disease or pest event occurs within a jurisdiction. The idea being to spread the cost associated with handling the disease or pest event provided the defined terms and conditions are followed.

Intergovernmental Agreement on Biosecurity (IGAB)

An agreement between the Commonwealth and all state and territory governments, with the exception of Tasmania. The IGAB aims to strengthen the working partnership between governments and to improve the national biosecurity system and minimise the impact of pests and disease on Australia’s economy, environment and the community. The IGAB Schedules identify priority areas for collaboration.

Zoonotic disease A disease caused by infectious agents that can be transmitted between (or are shared by) animals and humans.


2016-2026

ACT BIOSECURITY 2016-2026 STRATEGY...The ACT Biosecurity Strategy 2016-2026 identifies the goals,...

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